PNWU Celebrates the Inaugural Graduates of Our School of Occupational Therapy
On Saturday, May 17, 20205, in a milestone celebration of mission-driven education and the transformative power of compassionate care, Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) recognized the first-ever graduates of its School of Occupational Therapy (SOT) during the morning ceremony of its 2025 Commencement.
The graduating class — comprising 14 Master of Science in Occupational Therapy students — represents the beginning of a new chapter in PNWU’s interprofessional approach to community health. Each OT graduate leaves equipped with the knowledge and skillset to support people across the lifespan in achieving independence, inclusion, and wellness through occupation.
As the culmination of years of dedication, collaboration, and purpose-driven education, the ceremony marked a historic step forward in the University’s commitment to developing health care leaders who serve where they are needed most.
“This first class of occupational therapy graduates represents something greater than a program milestone.”
“This first class of occupational therapy graduates represents something greater than a program milestone,” said PNWU Provost Dr. Wayne Miller. “It represents the future of community-based health care, the kind that helps people regain their lives, restore their dignity, and participate fully in the world around them.”
Our inaugural graduates reflect our SOT’s foundational values: collaboration, equity, and patient-centered care.
The significance of their journey was felt deeply during the ceremony. As their names were read aloud, the audience of faculty, families, and fellow graduates rose in applause — recognizing not only their achievement, but the ripple effect it will create in homes, schools, rehabilitation centers, and underserved rural communities throughout the region and beyond.
